Sunday River
/
United States

Steve Boulanger - I manage trail maintenance and development for Sunday River Bike Park during the summer, and I am the Director of Ski Patrol in the winter.

Tell us a little bit about Sunday River Bike Park.

The Sunday River Bike Park is a downhill playground with 25 trails of lift-serviced downhill terrain that stretches for over 20 miles. Our terrain is best suited to intermediate and advanced riders, but we’ve recently added a new bike school and cross-country loop for new or beginner riders. Intermediate riders can choose between moderate single-track options, slick rock, and even jump lines and flow trails. Options in the park really open up for advanced riders with plenty of technical single-track, steep downhill trails, and manufactured terrain options. Lift tickets, bike rentals and repair, food and beverage, and all other bike services are based out of Sunday River Sports in the South Ridge Lodge.

How long ago was Sunday River Bike Park developed? Who or what was the driving force?

The Sunday River Bike Park was started in the early to mid 90’s. We closed for a period from 2004 to late summer 2007 when ownership changed hands. Since reopening, our trails have evolved from purely technical single-track to more of a downhill orientation with a greater focus on flow and fun. That being said, the mountain is quite literally made from rocks and dirt with roots holding it together, so we’ll always have to contend with natural topography.

How many visitors do you get in a weekend/season at the bike park? What has been your biggest day on record?

I think our biggest day on record was 168 riders a handful of years back. An average weekend (I think) is about 100 to 120 riders.

What is the most popular trail at your bike park?

Tango and Crash

Will there be any new trails added this year or will you be re-developing any existing trails?

Our plan is to rebuild/replace Easy Tiger, our beginner machine built trail, of the upper mountain.

We have a little bit of everything, but primarily we offer technical, natural DH trails. Everything has a “flow” but there are still a lot of roots and rocks to contend with. When it gets wet, things get interesting although there are often dry periods when the dust is rim deep.

What is the mountain bike scene/culture like at your bike park?

Our scene has a pretty relaxed atmosphere. We don’t do a lot in the way of racing and there isn’t typically much of a lift line wait.

Tell me a little bit about your town. Where do out-of-towners like to stay while visiting Sunday River? Are there any restaurants or bars that mtb-ers like to hang?

Often riders stay at one of the trailside condos, providing easy access to the lift. Smoking Good BBQ (formerly Bob’s BBQ) is a favorite of many riders.

Will you have any big events going on this summer at your bike park?

Nothing has been finalized yet to speak of…

Do you have an opening day yet?

TBD – late June.

What does the future hold for Sunday River?

We will continue to offer a constantly improving trail network. Our plan is to improve and increase our XC trail network as well as provide some mellower trails for beginner to intermediate DH riders.

During the summer months, the Sunday River Bike Park is open Fridays through Sundays, as well as holidays, from 10 a.m. until 4p.m. through Columbus Day Weekend. Go to our Sunday River site for more information.